For Immediate Release:

Friday, July 29, 2005

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell today declared victory in their efforts to secure critical federal funding for the 4th Congressional District’s transportation priorities. The Senators secured $4.25 million for the region in legislation reauthorizing surface transportation spending through 2009.

TEA-LU, which passed the House today and is expected to clear the Senate this afternoon, sets the funding levels for highways, ferries, and transit programs for the next six years.

“I am proud to have partnered with Sen. Cantwell to stand up for the transportation needs of Central Washington,” Senator Murray said. “In a tough budget year, under tough conditions, we stood together to make the investments that will create jobs, improve safety and lay the foundation for our region’s future economic growth.”

"We need to think of these federal funds as an investment. These are well spent dollars that will create jobs, improve our quality of life, and literally keep our economy moving,” Senator Cantwell said. "I'm proud of the way the delegation has worked together in these tight financial times to make sure Washington gets the improvements our communities need."

SR-240/Stevens Drive Corridor Improvements - $2.75 million

This project will construct a new highway interchange and grade separated railroad crossing at the intersection of SR-240 and Van Giesen Street (SR-224).

Hanford Reach National Monument Road Improvement - $1.5 million

This funding will improve road access and parking for the Hanford Reach National Monument Heritage and Visitor Center. Road improvements will also improve pedestrian access and safety.